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When Bonanza premiered on television in 1959, it not only entered the Western genre but also played a pivotal role in shaping it. The show aired for 14 successful seasons on NBC, captivating audiences with the adventures of the Cartwright family on their vast Ponderosa Ranch. Known for its rich storytelling, vibrant characters, and being one of the first color broadcasts, Bonanza was a trailblazer of its time. It received critical acclaim, numerous Emmy nominations, and remains a cultural icon in classic television.
After concluding in 1973 with over 400 episodes, the show’s legacy continues to endure. But what happened to the stars who breathed life into this frontier family?
Lorne Greene as Ben Cartwright
Lorne Greene portrayed Ben Cartwright, the head of the Cartwright family who raised his three distinct sons on the Ponderosa. Before Bonanza, he was recognized as the “Voice of Canada” for his work as a CBC radio broadcaster. Greene also starred in the sci-fi series Battlestar Galactica as Commander Adama, admired for his authoritative presence and deep voice. He was married to Rita Hands (1938–1960) and later to Nancy Deale (1961–1987), with whom he had children. In his later years, he remained active in television and public service but sadly passed away in 1987 at 72 due to pneumonia following surgery.
Pernell Roberts as Adam Cartwright
Pernell Roberts portrayed Adam Cartwright, the eldest and most intellectual of the Cartwright siblings. After six seasons on Bonanza, he achieved success in the medical drama Trapper John, M.D. in the 1980s. Roberts eventually stepped away from acting and passed away in 2010 at 81 due to pancreatic cancer.
Dan Blocker as Hoss Cartwright
Dan Blocker won hearts as Hoss Cartwright, the gentle giant middle brother. Before Bonanza, he served in the Korean War and had minor roles in other Western shows. He was married to Dolphia Parker and had four children, including actor Dirk Blocker. Dan’s sudden death in 1972 at the age of 43 from a pulmonary embolism during gallbladder surgery shocked fans and colleagues, leading to his character’s on-screen farewell.
Michael Landon as Little Joe Cartwright
Michael Landon portrayed the charming and impulsive Little Joe, the youngest Cartwright son. Post-Bonanza, he became a household name again with Little House on the Prairie and later Highway to Heaven. Landon married thrice and had nine children, some of whom pursued careers in showbiz. Despite his fame, he remained down-to-earth and adored by his peers and admirers. Tragically, he was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer before his passing.
David Canary, known for his roles as Candy Canaday in Bonanza and Adam Chandler in All My Children, passed away in 2015 at the age of 77 after a battle with cancer. He was a talented actor who won five Daytime Emmys and was survived by his wife Maureen Maloney and their two children.
Tim Matheson played Griff King in the final season of Bonanza before going on to have a successful career in film and television. Best known for his roles in Animal House and The West Wing, Matheson continues to work in Hollywood as both an actor and director, with credits in popular TV shows like Virgin River and Hart of Dixie.
Mitch Vogel portrayed Jamie Hunter on Bonanza and later stepped away from acting to live a quiet life with his family. Guy Williams briefly appeared as Will Cartwright on the show before gaining fame in Zorro and Lost in Space. Williams eventually moved to Argentina and lived a semi-retired life until his passing in 1989 at the age of 65.
